Hydraulic clutch maintenance

[JamesL]

Got around to changing the clutch fluid this weekend, service interval 2 years, this is 18 months. Fluid was absolutely gopping and to my horror I found that the space underneath the clutch cover and above the rubber seal was full of water . So, it's annual from now on, and note to self to check the cover stays properly tightened down... And fingers crossed the seals hold out...

PS got the RS going for the first time since before Crimbo, started first time!

[sykospain]

How did it go James ? Did you add new DOT4 from the top downwards, topping up the master cylinder on the bars at frequent intervals - or did you pump fluid from the bleed hose up backwards through the slave cylinder, like they did years ago in the factory ? I watched a guy doing it to a newly assembled 1150R on one of those fantastic Factory tours that you can go on in Spandau. Really worth seeing.
AL in s.e. Spain

[JamesL]

Hi Al, I did it the classic way, from the handlebars. I knackered the quick fill adapter trying to unscrew the plug, so replaced it with a conventional bleed nipple. Took 15 mins max, very simple.

[Motocod]

Just done mine; in hindsight a speed bleeder would have made it significantly easier - I had a lot of trouble with fluid oozing out through the threads on the bleed nipple. I guess on a caliper it's easier as the caliper tends to keep everything captive. So although it's done I'll probably be ordering a speed bleeder after all!

One good thing was the old fluid was still really clean, and not discoloured at all. I've owned the bike almost two years and never changed it, so that was a big surprise.

Something I found a massive nuisance was you have to be really slow with squeezing the clutch lever, or fluid jumps out. Lots of rags required.

Oh, and the original BMW figment is really tight to get off - lots of thread lock. I'd advise heating it before attempting to remove it.

Nik

[sykospain]

Good work then.

Incidentally, I just found this video on the Pelican Parts Technical Issues forum in the BMW bike section.

'How to check for spline wear in your 6-speed hydraulically-actuated Boxer's clutch assembly.'

Veeeerry Interesting....


https://youtu.be/dw6xP7a4EfM

And a touch worrying !

AL in s.e. Spain